Can a Borderline Parent Create Narcissistic Traits in their Child? | Epi 150

In this episode, we return to our consolidation series and slow down to explore a listener’s deeply thoughtful question: Is there a relationship between having a borderline parent and developing narcissistic traits? Rather than approaching this in a simplistic or causal way, we unpack the psychodynamic environment the child grows up in—one marked by emotional inconsistency, engulfment, or withdrawal—and how this creates a core internal dilemma. This is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered how early relational environments shape the way you connect, protect yourself, and experience others. 

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Dr. Anthony Mazzella is a psychoanalyst and psychodynamic psychotherapist specializing in narcissism, personality disorders, and relational dynamics.